Nestled in the southern part of Shanghai’s Songjiang District, 88 Mu Tian Rice Culture Experience Land sits at 1118 Hongyang Highway, surrounded by lush farmlands and quiet waterways. It’s a breath of fresh air away from the city’s hustle, yet easy to reach: take Metro Line 9 to Songjiang University Town Station, then a 15-minute taxi ride, or hop on Bus 1816 (“Hongyang Highway Huimin Road” stop). Driving? Plenty of free parking, and the scenic route along Hongyang Highway makes it worth the ride.

Natural Scenery: A Farmer’s Canvas

At 88 Mu Tian, nature steals the show. Imagine 88 mu (about 14 acres) of emerald rice paddies stretching into the horizon, framed by canals and willow trees. Spring brings mirror-like fields reflecting sky-blue, while autumn paints them golden. Walk wooden boardwalks through paddy trails, snap photos at sunrise when mist dances over the water, or join a sunset tour as dragonflies flit over the crops. Nearby, a small orchard hosts peach and plump bili (bayberries) in season—perfect for a fruit-picking detour.

Cultural Heart: Rice Is Life

This isn’t just a farm—it’s a love letter to China’s rice soul. At 88 Mu Tian, ancient farming tools line mud walls, and guides explain how Songjiang’s farmers once planted, harvested, and milled grain by hand. Try your luck at rice-planting workshops (easy for kids!), watch artisans weave bamboo baskets, or taste freshly steamed nongjia fan (farmer’s rice) with fermented soybean sides. During festivals, join a zhaixin (harvest heart) ceremony: tie red ribbons on rice stalks to wish for abundance.

For Families & Foodies

Families, rejoice! 88 Mu Tian has a petting zoo with ducks, goats, and even a lazy water buffalo. Kids can grind rice into flour using stone mills or race through a maze of tall sunflowers. Hungry? The on-site Rice Culture Cafe serves bowls of hongshao rou (Shanghai’s signature braised pork) over rice, plus snacks like mifu (rice skins) stuffed with sweet red bean. Pro tip: Buy their organic rice in cute woven baskets—perfect souvenirs.

Stay Longer: Workshops & Waves

Want more than a day trip? Book a rice-wine brewing class (learn to mix glutinous rice, yeast, and water for nuo hongyin, a sweet local liquor) or join a calligraphy session where you’ll write Chinese characters on rice paper. Nearby, Shenyuan Garden (a 10-minute drive) offers classical pavilions, while the Guo Jie River is great for kayak rentals. End your trip with a hot spring soak at Songjiang Rare Fungus Park—just ask the staff for directions.

Practical Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: April–October (peak rice seasons are May and September).
  • Language: English-speaking guides available with advance booking.
  • Tickets: Around ¥50 ($7) for adults, kids under 1.2m free. Combine with nearby attractions for combo deals.
  • Wear: Boots or old sneakers—fields can get muddy after rain!

Whether you’re a culture buff, nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape, 88 Mu Tian Rice Culture Experience Land wraps Shanghai’s rural charm and history into one tidy bow. Come hungry—for knowledge, photos, and maybe a bowl of the world’s best rice.